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Priority (on a scale of 1-10): 8. Dan Mullen always comments on the perception of the program compared to its reality. The reality regarding Mississippi State’s defensive line is that the team returns two starters and six seniors. A host of talent sits behind them, including Fletcher Adams, Thomas and Hoyett.

Adams led Mississippi State’s signing class last year on the line. Three heralded redshirt freshmen debuted in 2015 — Thomas, Boyett and Harris.

The perception, though, is that Mississippi State needs to sign at least one of its three remaining targets, especially with Emmit Gooden, a four-star lineman that committed to MSU, but is headed to junior college.

Brown is a longshot, but the Bulldogs still appear on Simmons’ radar. Mullen made a surprise visit to Noxubee County on Thursday to meet the highly-touted defensive end. Simmons represents MSU’s best chance at landing a five-star prospect.

Jones hits on MSU’s perception and reality. He would help anchor the Bulldogs’ class and add depth as a four-star talent for years to come. Defensive tackle becomes a position of need in 2017 with Nelson Adams and James graduating.

The perception is Mississippi State can’t miss out on a local talent from Starkville High. The fact that Simmons is also an in-state talent also adds pressure for MSU to add the five-star talent.

The Bulldogs' last 5-star recruit — Chris Jones — declared early for the NFL draft earlier this month. This year's recruiting class offers similar potential. With no clear replacement for Jones in terms of raw talent, the defensive line becomes a key position for MSU in recruiting.